As a trusted digital inkjet printing ink manufacturer, we at PRINT-RITE often encounter customers searching for "pigment ink for sublimation" – a phrase that reveals a common confusion in the digital printing industry. While both dye sublimation inks and pigment inks are crucial for textile and graphic printing, they are fundamentally different technologies designed for distinct applications.
Choosing the wrong ink can lead to poor print quality, wasted materials, and frustrated customers. This comprehensive guide will clarify the differences, helping you make an informed decision for your specific printing needs.
Understanding the Core Chemistry: How They Work
Dye Sublimation Ink: The Gas-Phase Transfer Process
Dye sublimation ink contains special dyes that transform from a solid to a gas when heated (typically between 180°C-210°C or 356°F-410°F), bypassing the liquid phase. This gas penetrates the surface of synthetic polymers (primarily polyester) or polymer-coated substrates, where it solidifies and becomes a permanent part of the material.
Key Insight: It's a dye-based ink that requires a two-step process: printing onto transfer paper first, then heat-pressing onto the final product.
Our Formulation: PRINT-RITE's dye sublimation ink uses advanced dye chemistry for maximum color vibrancy and transfer efficiency, complying with OEKO-TEX ECO PASSPORT standards.
Pigment Ink: The Surface-Coating Process
Pigment ink consists of tiny, insoluble color particles suspended in a liquid carrier. When printed, the carrier evaporates or is absorbed, leaving the pigment particles sitting on top of the substrate's surface. A binder (often within the ink or activated by heat) helps adhere the pigments to the material.
Key Insight: It's a particle-based ink that typically prints directly onto the substrate (Direct-to-Garment or DTG).
Our Expertise: As a manufacturer of both types, PRINT-RITE's pigment inks are engineered for stability and sharpness, suitable for a wide range of materials beyond textiles.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Dye Sublimation vs. Pigment Ink
Feature | Dye Sublimation Ink | Pigment Ink |
Primary Mechanism | Dyes gasify and infuse into polymer fibers/coating. | Pigment particles adhere to the surface via a binder. |
Best Substrate | Polyester fabrics & polymer-coated items (mugs, plates, phone cases). Works best with high polyester content (>65%). | Cotton, natural fibers, dark fabrics (with underbase), mixed blends, and non-porous surfaces. |
Hand Feel | Excellent. Ink becomes part of the fabric, leaving no perceptible layer. The fabric remains soft and breathable. | Can be noticeable. May leave a slight coating or stiffness on the fabric, especially with higher ink coverage. |
Color Vibrancy | Exceptionally vibrant and photorealistic on suitable substrates. Colors are bright and deep. | Generally good, but can appear slightly muted or less "rich" compared to sublimation on synthetics. Excellent on dark fabrics with proper underbase. |
Wash & Rub Fastness | Excellent on polyester. The dye is locked within the fibers, resisting fading from washing and friction. | Very Good to Excellent on natural fibers. Modern pigment inks offer high durability but may eventually crack or fade with extreme abrasion. |
Production Workflow | Requires transfer paper and a heat press. Ideal for bulk production of identical items (sublimation blanks). | Often direct-to-substrate. Excellent for on-demand, single-item printing and customization. |
Startup & Operational Cost | Lower ink cost per ml, but requires investment in a heat press and transfer paper. Highly cost-effective for bulk polyester orders. | Higher ink cost per ml, but may not require a separate heat press for all applications. Ideal for short runs and mixed material shops. |
Environmental Profile | Often water-based with low VOC. PRINT-RITE's inks are OEKO-TEX ECO PASSPORT certified, ensuring safety. | Also moving towards eco-friendly formulations. Can contain binders and other additives. |
Choose DYE SUBLIMATION INK if you primarily work with:
Sportswear & Activewear (polyester jerseys, leggings, cycling shirts)
Flags, Banners & Soft Signage
Sublimation Blanks (mugs, puzzles, mousepads, coasters with polymer coating)
Fashion on Polyester (chiffon, lycra, performance fabrics)
Goal: High-volume production, vibrant full-color designs, and a soft fabric hand feel.
Choose PIGMENT INK (Direct-to-Garment) if you primarily work with:
100% Cotton T-shirts & Apparel
Canvas Bags & Natural Fiber Products
Mixed Fabric Blends (e.g., 50/50 cotton-polyester shirts)
Printing on Dark-Colored Garments (requires a white underbase)
Goal: On-demand printing, versatility across fabric types, and simplified direct printing.
Clearing the Confusion: "Pigment Ink for Sublimation"?
The search term "pigment ink for sublimation" is technically a misnomer. True sublimation requires a dye that can gasify. There are specialized pigment-based transfers that use a heat-activated adhesive to stick to fabrics, but this is a different process (sometimes called "heat transfer vinyl" or "pigment transfer paper") that results in a more noticeable layer on the material.
If you are seeking the true, vapor-based sublimation process that yields soft-hand, vibrant prints on polyester, you need Dye Sublimation Ink.
Conclusion & Recommendation from PRINT-RITE
Your choice ultimately depends on your target substrate, desired hand feel, production volume, and business model.
For 100% Polyester or Coated Items & High-Volume Runs: Dye Sublimation Ink is the undisputed champion for quality, durability, and feel.
For Cotton, Mixed Fabrics & On-Demand Printing: Pigment Ink (DTG) offers the flexibility and convenience you need.
Still Unsure? As a trusted dye sublimation ink manufacturer and pigment ink supplier with 60,000-ton annual production capacity, PRINT-RITE's technical experts can help you navigate this choice.